County Executive Russell M. Pry Sponsors Heat the Town 2009, Encourages Citizens to Apply for Home Weatherization Assistance Services

On Saturday, October 3, 2009, more than 200 heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) specialists and other professionals throughout the industry will be participating in Heat the Town, an annual volunteer program that provides free furnace checks to 100 homeowners across Summit County. 

In addition to the free furnace checks, Heat the Town program participants will receive a furnace filter, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and in some circumstances on the spot repairs. 

The Akron Community Foundation, the City of Akron, the County of Summit, Dominion East Ohio, the Professional Association of Comfort Contractors (PACC) and Rebuilding Together Summit County, Inc. are backing the project.

Low-income, elderly, veterans and disabled homeowners are encouraged to apply by contacting Rebuilding Together Summit County, Inc. at 330-773-4100.  Applicants are being selected on a first come, first serve basis. 

Along with encouraging citizens to apply for Heat the Town services, County Executive Russell M. Pry is urging citizens to take advantage of the Summit County Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP).  HWAP is a no-cost weatherization assistance program designed to reduce energy costs for low-income families with children, the elderly and citizens with disabilities by providing the following weatherization services:

• Tune-up/repair of combustion appliances (heating units, stoves, hot water tanks, etc.)

• Insulation of attics, sidewalls, floors or foundation perimeter and water heaters

• Sealing of heating ducts

• Reduction of air leakage from major sources

• Personalized energy management plan

• Information on how to control humidity in your home

According to the State of Ohio Department of Development, after weatherization, households that heat with natural gas reduce space heating consumption by an average of 24.7%, and electrically heated homes reduce usage on average of 13%. 

Studies show that when weatherization is combined with educating clients on home energy efficiency, residents can save up to 25% on their home heating bills. 

Eligibility for the Home Weatherization Assistance Program is based on household income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level (see income table below).  All families who have received assistance any time during the last twelve months under the Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) are automatically eligible for weatherization services. 

All services are based on the availability of funds.  All qualified applicants are served based on a priority points system.  Elderly and disabled persons receive additional priority points.

To apply for the Home Weatherization Assistance Program contact the County of Summit Department of Community and Economic Development at 330-643-2537, or click on www.co.summit.oh.us .